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This information is provided by the
Oklahoma Bar Association
1
Almost everything individuals do – such as making a purchase, starting a business, driving a car, getting married or writing a will – is affected by laws.
This pamphlet is intended to help you decide when you need a lawyer and to provide guidelines for choosing and using one.
When do I need a lawyer?
The best time to see a lawyer is before a problem occurs– not when you are in legal trouble. Preventive law is one of the most valuable services a lawyer can perform. It can save time, trouble and money.
There are many situations involving legal rights and responsibilities that can be handled without the assistance of a lawyer. However, if you are about to undertake a major obligation or if circumstances are confusing, it may be helpful to consult a lawyer. An attorney can analyze the legal implications of a situation, offer advice and decide how best to protect your rights.
To help you decide if you need a lawyer, ask yourself these questions:
1) What is at stake – and what are the consequences if the problem is ignored?
2) Are there other ways to solve the matter?
3) How much may it cost to hire a lawyer?
4) Am I knowledgeable about the law governing this problem?
Some of the circumstances that may require professional legal assistance are:
buying or selling real estate•
any major financial transaction•
signing a lease or contract with major financial
• considerations
marriage, divorce or adoption•
if you are involved in a lawsuit•
if you are arrested or charged with a crime•
starting or closing a business•
drafting a will or other estate planning•
if you have tax concerns or financial problems•
when you have a serious accident•
when you make appearances, applications or appeals
• to government agencies or boards
Why can’t I handle my own legal problems?
It is not unlawful for you to represent yourself in court or to handle your own legal matters. Self-help “kits” and preprinted forms do not consider individual needs, differences and complications. They may not be appropriate for your matter.
Many laws are complex, and subject to various interpretations and frequent change which can result in a great deal of confusion. Lawyers are trained to explain and interpret the law for you, to provide legal assistance and to be aware of all court procedures, filing requirements, deadlines and other details which a non-lawyer could easily overlook. This role is important, since judges and court personnel are not generally allowed to give you any legal advice as your case proceeds or to relax rules and requirements for you because you are not a lawyer.
How do I select a lawyer?
Selecting a lawyer is a personal matter. You must judge which particular attorney will be best for you. Before making a decision, however, you may want to contact several lawyers or law firms to gather some comparative information.
When choosing a lawyer, keep practical considerations in

This information is provided by the
Oklahoma Bar Association
1
Almost everything individuals do – such as making a purchase, starting a business, driving a car, getting married or writing a will – is affected by laws.
This pamphlet is intended to help you decide when you need a lawyer and to provide guidelines for choosing and using one.
When do I need a lawyer?
The best time to see a lawyer is before a problem occurs– not when you are in legal trouble. Preventive law is one of the most valuable services a lawyer can perform. It can save time, trouble and money.
There are many situations involving legal rights and responsibilities that can be handled without the assistance of a lawyer. However, if you are about to undertake a major obligation or if circumstances are confusing, it may be helpful to consult a lawyer. An attorney can analyze the legal implications of a situation, offer advice and decide how best to protect your rights.
To help you decide if you need a lawyer, ask yourself these questions:
1) What is at stake – and what are the consequences if the problem is ignored?
2) Are there other ways to solve the matter?
3) How much may it cost to hire a lawyer?
4) Am I knowledgeable about the law governing this problem?
Some of the circumstances that may require professional legal assistance are:
buying or selling real estate•
any major financial transaction•
signing a lease or contract with major financial
• considerations
marriage, divorce or adoption•
if you are involved in a lawsuit•
if you are arrested or charged with a crime•
starting or closing a business•
drafting a will or other estate planning•
if you have tax concerns or financial problems•
when you have a serious accident•
when you make appearances, applications or appeals
• to government agencies or boards
Why can’t I handle my own legal problems?
It is not unlawful for you to represent yourself in court or to handle your own legal matters. Self-help “kits” and preprinted forms do not consider individual needs, differences and complications. They may not be appropriate for your matter.
Many laws are complex, and subject to various interpretations and frequent change which can result in a great deal of confusion. Lawyers are trained to explain and interpret the law for you, to provide legal assistance and to be aware of all court procedures, filing requirements, deadlines and other details which a non-lawyer could easily overlook. This role is important, since judges and court personnel are not generally allowed to give you any legal advice as your case proceeds or to relax rules and requirements for you because you are not a lawyer.
How do I select a lawyer?
Selecting a lawyer is a personal matter. You must judge which particular attorney will be best for you. Before making a decision, however, you may want to contact several lawyers or law firms to gather some comparative information.
When choosing a lawyer, keep practical considerations in